Smart knee replacement with motion sensing technology
Smart knee replacement is an innovative orthopedic technology that securely collects motion data for a more personalized recovery.
Unlike traditional implants, the smart knee’s tiny, built-in sensor provides real-time, real-world feedback on your knee’s performance—such as step count, walking speed, and range of motion—so you stay connected and supported every step of the way.
Orthopedic surgeons at MedStar Health are among the first in the region to offer smart knee replacement to use the Persona IQ® motion-sensing implant technology.
By giving your care team daily insights into how your knee is functioning at home and in everyday life, smart knee technology supports earlier intervention and a smoother return to movement.
If your surgeon recommends a cemented knee replacement, you may be a candidate for the Persona IQ smart knee sensor.
How the smart knee works
Aside from the sensor, the implant is identical in appearance and function to a standard knee replacement.
- The sensor, made of biocompatible titanium alloy, is seamlessly integrated into the stem extension of the knee implant.
- Each night, your knee’s activity data is securely transmitted to a bedside base station about the size of a wireless internet router.
- The data is uploaded to a secure platform accessible only to you and your care team.
Your surgeon will set up your smart knee to collect data every day for about the first six months—the most crucial time of recovery. After that, it shifts to weekly and then monthly.
The implant’s battery typically lasts up to 10 years and does not need to be replaced. When the battery runs out, the sensor no longer transmits data but your knee continues to function normally.
Benefits of smart knee technology
With traditional knee replacement, recovery is typically evaluated during follow-up appointments and physical therapy visits. Smart knee technology adds real-time data that tracks the patient’s everyday activity. The implant can monitor:
- Step count
- Distance traveled
- Walking speed
- Step length
- Cadence
- Range of motion
For example, your sensor data may reveal:
- A sudden drop in activity that suggests increased pain or swelling
- Activity levels that may be too high during early recovery
- Slower-than-expected improvements in range of motion
- Subtle changes in walking patterns that appear before symptoms are noticeable
Rather than waiting weeks between visits, your care team can see how the knee is performing day to day. Motion data reflects your real-world activities, such as walking the dog, climbing stairs, or running errands. We can use the data to tailor your physical therapy and recovery plan to your actual needs.
Many patients find motivation in seeing their own progress data. It can be reassuring to see that your experience is normal and shared by thousands of others.
Privacy and data security—secured
The smart knee collects only motion data, ensuring your privacy is protected at every step.
- The smart knee does not use GPS and cannot track your location.
- The implant only communicates with your personal base station and will not pair with any other hub.
The Persona IQ platform is HIPAA-compliant. - Only you, your surgeon, and your designated care team can access your data.
- You can stop data transmission at any time by unplugging the base station. Your knee will continue to work even if data is no longer being sent.
If you’re interested in contributing to ongoing research for future patients, you can choose to share anonymous data with a national database. This is optional.
Our locations
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MedStar Montgomery Medical Center
18101 Prince Philip Dr. Olney, MD 20832
MedStar Union Memorial Hospital
201 E. University Pkwy. Baltimore, MD 21218